This DIY Composition book using trims and ribbons not only stands out from the rest, but also makes good use of leftover stash!
DIY Composition book using trims and ribbons
I love back-to-school season, mostly because of the .99 composition books (actually you can score them even cheaper!).
I used a boho vibe technique to add new life to this one.
Supplies:
Blank journal
Assorted trims
Crystal trim
Craft knife or scissors
Dry adhesive or paper crafting glue
Directions:
– Open the book flat, covers facing up.
– Measure and cut the trim so it goes across the entire book.
-Set out your trim in an order that you like. I love contrast, but if you look close, you can see I used gold as a repeating theme in the pattern.
– Apply the tape to the book all the way across, rub it down with your fingers and then peel off the backing.
– Apply the ribbon/trim along the sticky side.
– Keep going, when you get the composition part, use your craft knife or scissors to cut away, so that title still shows. That is what really gives the book character!
– Add trim around the frame of the title and set the crystal trim in place. If the tape is too wide, cut it in half before applying.
– Use your fingers to pres the trim in place.
– Trim edges.
RELATED:
Best practices for using a planner
12 Ways to make a DIY art journal
Random trivia ab out the composition notebook!
The classic school composition notebook is a staple in classrooms and has an interesting history and design.
The composition notebook originated in France and Germany in the late 19th century. The marbled black-and-white cover is said to be inspired by the marbling techniques used in bookbinding.
The marbled cover design is not just for aesthetics. It was initially used to make the notebook look more durable and to hide wear and tear.
Unlike spiral notebooks, composition notebooks typically have a sewn binding, which makes them more durable and less likely to lose pages. This design also allows them to lie flat when open.
The classic composition notebook has a standardized size, usually around 7.5 x 9.75 inches. This standardization makes it easy to stack and store.
The composition notebook has become a cultural icon, often appearing in movies, TV shows, and other media as a symbol of student life and academic effort.
While the traditional cover is black and white, modern composition notebooks come in various colors and designs, catering to different tastes and preferences.
Many composition notebooks are now made with recycled paper and environmentally friendly materials, reflecting a growing trend towards sustainability in school supplies.
Though they started in Europe, composition notebooks are now used worldwide, becoming a universal symbol of education.
Historically, composition notebooks were used not just by students but also by writers, journalists, and scientists for note-taking and journaling.











love it!. I seriously love your blog, so inspiring, you have awesome style, I was just thinking today about a composition notebook craft 🙂
firedemenglehHi everyone!
I’ve used these books for a gazillion years because I’m a lefty – and they are just perfect for writing in because they lay flat!
I have painted and primped them – but never with glitter – love this! What I have done is made wonderful removable canvas covers for them though and painted on them. One of these days I’ll share them if Ms. Crafty Chica can show me how!
Have a craft filled day!
Mari